What does an SSA "notice of award" signify for a claimant?

A "notice of award" from the Social Security Administration (SSA) signifies that a claim has been approved. When a claimant receives this notice, it confirms that they are eligible for certain benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The notice typically includes information about the amount of the benefit, when payments will begin, and other important details related to the award.

Receiving a notice of award is a significant milestone for claimants, as it represents a favorable outcome after undergoing an often lengthy and complex application process. The approval means that the SSA has reviewed the claim and determined that the individual meets the necessary criteria for receiving benefits.

In contrast, options that indicate a claim has been denied, a request for additional information, or the need for an appeal do not align with the purpose or meaning of a notice of award, which is exclusively associated with approval of benefits.